Building Instructions for a LEGO MFM
Shift-Click (Netscape) or Right-Click (Explorer) to Download these JPEGs
| sub-model Base | sub-model Cart | |
| sub-model Arm | Steps 1-2 | Steps 1-2 |
| sub-model Drive Trains | Steps 3-4 | Steps 3-4 |
| sub-model Tower | Steps 5-6 | Steps 5-6 |
| sub-model Tower (Page 2) | Step 7 | Step 7-8 |
| Step 9-10 | ||
| Completed Model | Step 11 |
To convert the above model to LEGO Dacta, follow this extra step.
Using the Dacta model, a plot of light intensity as a function of time can be displayed on the screen.
Note: The model created from the instructions above looks different from the one pictured on the previous pages.
Programming for Dacta
Notes: This is only a text file detailing how the program can be created.
It is assumed that the user has basic knowledge of the LEGO Dacta Control Lab software package. If this is not the case, refer to the reference books that came with the Control Lab set.
Programming for RCX
MFM.prg is written for the Robotics Invention System software package. This is the standard package that is included in the LEGO Mindstorm kit. Put the file in the ...\LEGO MINDSTORMS\tools\library directory.
MFM.vi is written for the LEGO Robotics software package. This package is not included in the Mindstorm kit but it is available from LEGO. Put the file in the ...\ROBOLAB\Program Vault\Inventor\My Programs\Level4 directory
Both programs work equally well. As each software package has its strengths and weaknesses, programs are provided for both.
Note: as each model differs slightly, programming may need modification.
Copyright 2001 by the University of Wisconsin - Madison Materials Research Science and Engineering Center for Nanostructured Materials and Interfaces, Board of Trustees of Bradley University. All rights reserved. This project was supported, in part, by the National Science Foundation. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the Foundation. LEGO and DACTA are trademarks of the LEGO group and are used with special permission. © 2001 the LEGO group. The illustrations in these experiments are used here with special permission.
